Period Blues

Dear Sugar
I am 22 years old and I suffer from depression. When I am PMSing, my depression gets even worse and I sometimes have a hard time getting out of bed and tend to just want to be alone. I've recently starting dating someone, (it's been around two months) and I am wondering when would be a good time to tell him about this. How can I bring it up without scaring him off? Bummed out Blaire

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Dear Bummed out Blaire
I am sorry to hear you are struggling with depression. Are you on any medication? Many women suffer from mood alterations when they are premenstrual so don't be too hard on yourself if you like to be alone during that time of the month.

Every woman is different and each period is unique, but luckily there are some ways to ease the pain of PMS. Exercising three to five times a week helps improve your mood and lowering your intake of caffeine and alcohol has also been proven to lower the chances of feeling down and out.

Try taking a calcium supplement right before your period as calcium has also been proven to help remedy PMS. Telling your boyfriend about your depression is a very personal decision. There is no right or wrong time or way, just make sure it feels right for you.

Although you fear he will scare easily, if he cares about you, chances are he will be understanding and respectful of your feelings. Having the support from your boyfriend and loved ones could help with your blues so lean on the people around you.

Yeah, I think this guy will appreciate it if you tell him the truth instead of leaving him to wonder why you are crying or yelling for what seems to be no reason.
Also, you should really really really talk to your doctor and/or a therapist about your depression. There are some great medications out there that can help with this chemical imbalance in your brain. It is important to do this, especially if it interfering with your life so much. You need to take care of yourself.

I agree with Girl In The World, about the B-vitamin supplements. I also have severe PMS. A few months ago I started taking this herbal supplement (made from flower pollen and some herbs) that regulates my hormones during this time. It's really helped me.
I told my boyfriend about the PMS as soon as he realised something was wrong. You can't hide it forever.

Have you worked with your Dr. to discover if there is a medical reason (besides general PMS) that could have you feeling so down at that time of the month? Hormonal imbalances can be corrected with the right supplements and medications and are easily diagnosed with a blood sample. It could also have to do with low iron or a lack of b-vitamins, try a supplement that includes both of those, and snack on lots spinach salads and raisins.It also helps to treat yourself well by having bubble baths, reading an uplifting book or watching a feel-good movie. If your boyfriend is really a good guy, he should understand if you don't feel up to yur usual activities during your time of the month.